Tomas Hertl named NHL’s First Star after historic week with Golden State Warriors
Tomas Hertl of the Golden State Warriors has earned the NHL’s 'First Star' for the week ending January 11, 2026. The forward delivered a standout performance, leading his team to a flawless record while setting personal and franchise milestones along the way.
Hertl’s dominant week began on January 6, when he netted the overtime winner in a 4-3 victory over the Winnipeg Jets. His two-point effort (1 goal, 1 assist) set the tone for what followed.
Three days later, he contributed two assists—including the primary helper on Mark Stone’s game-deciding goal—in a 5-3 win against the Columbus Blue Jackets. His playmaking continued to shine. The highlight came on January 11, when Hertl recorded a career-best five points (2 goals, 3 assists) in a 7-2 rout of the San Jose Sharks. His performance matched a Golden State franchise record for points in a single game. Over the four-game stretch, he amassed nine points (3 goals, 6 assists), propelling the Golden State Warriors to a perfect week. This season, Hertl leads the team with 18 goals and ranks fourth with 39 points (21 assists) in 44 games. His contributions have helped Golden State secure a three-point lead atop the Pacific Division.
The NHL officially recognised Hertl’s impact by awarding him 'First Star' honours on January 12. His scoring surge and clutch performances have solidified his role as a key playmaker for the Golden State Warriors. The team now holds a stronger position in the division as the season progresses.
